Which physiological change should a nurse expect to observe when assessing an elderly client?

The proper length of the needle to administer a subcutaneous injection depends on the amount of adipose tissue over the muscle.

The needle should be long enough to reach the subcutaneous layer but not so long that it penetrates the muscle. The needle gauge and length vary depending on the patient’s size and the injection site

Choice A is wrong because the age of the client does not determine the needle length.

However, age may affect the amount of adipose tissue and muscle mass, which are factors to consider when choosing a needle length.

Choice B is wrong because the viscosity of the solution does not determine the needle length. However, viscosity may affect the needle gauge, which is the diameter of the needle.

Thicker solutions may require larger gauge needles to allow easier flow.

Choice D is wrong because the quantity of the solution does not determine the needle length.

However, quantity may affect the syringe size, which is the volume of medication that can be held by the syringe.

The syringe size should match the prescribed dose as closely as possible to ensure accuracy and ease of measurement.

This is because a client with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may have periods of apnea lasting more than 10 seconds during sleep, which can lead to hypoxia and hypercapnia. These conditions can cause the client to be difficult to arouse and may indicate respiratory failure.

The nurse should take immediate action to stimulate the client, provide oxygen, and call for help.

Choice B is wrong because blood pressure 142/92 mmHg is not an emergency for a client with OSA. It is within the stage 1 hypertension range, which may be caused by OSA or other factors. The nurse should monitor the client’s blood pressure and encourage lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss, exercise, and dietary changes.

Choice C is wrong because apneic periods lasting more than 10 seconds are expected in a client with OSA. This is the criterion for diagnosing OSA during a sleep study. The nurse should educate the client about the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or other treatments to prevent apnea and improve oxygenation during sleep.

Choice D is wrong because oxygen desaturation to 90% when asleep is not an emergency for a client with OSA. It is a common finding in OSA due to the intermittent obstruction of the upper airway. The nurse should ensure that the client has supplemental oxygen available and teach the client about the benefits of CPAP or other devices to maintain airway patency and oxygen saturation during sleep.